Ducks in Michigan: 12 Bird Species with Pictures & Facts [2023]

Do You Know Beautiful Ducks in Michigan? Michigan is home to a diverse range of wildlife, and its wetlands, lakes, and rivers provide an ideal habitat for waterfowl. Among the many bird species found in the state, ducks hold a special place. Michigan boasts a variety of duck species, each with its unique characteristics and behaviors. In this guide, we will explore the 12 species of ducks in Michigan, providing insight into their appearance, habitat, and interesting facts about each one.

Ducks in Michigan: Exploring 12 Species

1. Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos)

Mallards are perhaps the most recognizable ducks in North America. Their striking emerald-green heads, distinctive quacking, and adaptability make them a common sight in Michigan. You can spot them in ponds, lakes, and even urban areas. Mallards are omnivorous and feed on a diet of aquatic plants, insects, and small fish.

Notable Fact:

Mallards are highly adaptable and can thrive in urban environments, making them one of the most commonly seen ducks in cities and towns across Michigan.

2. American Wigeon (Anas americana)

American Wigeons are known for their distinctive white foreheads and striking chestnut heads. They prefer shallow waters and can often be found dabbling for aquatic plants. During migration, they gather in large flocks. Keep an eye out for their distinctive whistling calls.

Notable Fact:

American Wigeons are known for their unique whistling calls, which can be quite distinctive when heard in a flock.

3. Blue-winged Teal (Anas discors)

As their name suggests, Blue-winged Teals have striking blue wing patches. They are small ducks that often inhabit shallow ponds and marshes. These agile birds are known for their quick, twisting flights and high-pitched calls.

Notable Fact:

Blue-winged Teals are some of the earliest migratory ducks to arrive in Michigan during the spring, often showing up as soon as the ice begins to melt.

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4. Green-winged Teal (Anas crecca)

Green-winged Teals are closely related to Blue-winged Teals and share similar body sizes and habitats. The key difference is the striking green stripe on the males’ wings. They are often found in densely vegetated wetlands and are known for their rapid and erratic flight patterns.

Notable Fact:

Green-winged Teals are among the smallest dabbling ducks in North America and are known for their rapid and erratic flight patterns.

5. American Black Duck (Anas rubripes)

American Black Ducks are medium-sized ducks with distinctive dark plumage. They are generally found in wooded wetlands and are known for their shyness. These ducks have a preference for quieter, more secluded habitats.

Notable Fact:

American Black Ducks are known for their shy and secretive nature, making them a bit more challenging to spot than some other duck species.

6. Redhead (Aythya americana)

Redheads are known for their striking red heads and gray bodies. They inhabit freshwater lakes and marshes. During the breeding season, males engage in vibrant courtship displays. They primarily feed on aquatic vegetation.

Notable Fact:

Redheads are known for their distinctive courtship displays, which involve head-throwing and various calls as part of their elaborate mating rituals.

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7. Northern Shoveler (Anas clypeata)

Northern Shovelers have distinctive large, flat bills that resemble a shovel, hence their name. These ducks are known for their filter-feeding habits, and they can be found in freshwater lakes, marshes, and ponds. Look for their unmistakable spatula-shaped bills.

Notable Fact:

Northern Shovelers are excellent filter-feeders, using their shovel-like bills to strain small organisms from the water while swimming.

8. Bufflehead (Bucephala albeola)

Buffleheads are small diving ducks known for their striking black and white plumage. They primarily inhabit small ponds and rivers. These agile divers feed on aquatic invertebrates and crustaceans.

Notable Fact:

Buffleheads are known for their rapid and spectacular aerial displays during courtship, which involve twisting and turning in mid-air.

9. Gadwall (Anas strepera)

Gadwalls are medium-sized ducks with a subtle beauty. Their plumage is predominantly gray, with intricate patterns. They prefer calm, shallow waters and feed on aquatic plants and insects. Keep an eye out for their distinctive quacking calls.

Notable Fact:

Gadwalls are often recognized by their distinctive quacking calls, which can be heard in wetlands and ponds across Michigan.

10. Canvasback (Aythya valisineria)

Canvasbacks are large diving ducks with long necks and distinctive red eyes. They prefer deeper bodies of water and are known for their efficient diving abilities. Their diet mainly consists of aquatic vegetation and invertebrates.

Notable Fact:

Canvasbacks are known for their strong diving abilities and can submerge themselves completely underwater to forage for food.

11. Ring-necked Duck (Aythya collaris)

Ring-necked Ducks are known for the white ring around their bills. They inhabit freshwater lakes, ponds, and marshes. These ducks are strong divers and primarily feed on aquatic plants and small invertebrates.

Notable Fact:

Despite their name, the ring on a Ring-necked Duck’s neck is often difficult to see unless the bird is at close range.

12. Wood Duck (Aix sponsa)

Wood Ducks are perhaps the most colorful of Michigan’s ducks. Males sport striking iridescent plumage, while females have more muted colors. They are cavity-nesting ducks and often use tree hollows as nesting sites. Look for them in wooded wetlands and along rivers.

Notable Fact:

Wood Ducks are cavity-nesting ducks and are known to nest in tree hollows, making them unique among North American waterfowl.

FAQs:

Q1: What kind of ducks live in Michigan?

A1: Michigan is home to a variety of duck species, including Mallards, American Wigeons, Blue-winged Teals, Green-winged Teals, American Black Ducks, Redheads, Northern Shovelers, Buffleheads, Gadwalls, Canvasbacks, Ring-necked Ducks, and Wood Ducks.

Q2: Do ducks winter in Michigan?

A2: Yes, many duck species do winter in Michigan. Waterfowl migrate to Michigan’s open water bodies, such as the Great Lakes and unfrozen lakes and rivers, during the winter months in search of food and shelter from harsher northern climates.

Q3: What kind of duck eats fish in Michigan?

A3: The Northern Shoveler is known to consume small aquatic invertebrates and crustaceans, but it primarily feeds on aquatic plants and insects. Other ducks, like mergansers, are more specialized fish-eaters in Michigan.

Q4: What is the most common duck in Michigan?

A4: The Mallard is often considered the most common duck species in Michigan. Its adaptability to various habitats, including urban areas, contributes to its widespread presence.

Q5: What are the little ducks in Michigan?

A5: There are several small duck species in Michigan, including Buffleheads, Blue-winged Teals, and Green-winged Teals, which are known for their relatively small size compared to other ducks.

Q6: What is the best backyard duck?

A6: The choice of the best backyard duck depends on your specific preferences and needs. However, domesticated ducks like the Pekin or Khaki Campbell are popular choices for backyard enthusiasts due to their friendly nature and ease of care.

Final Thoughts:

In conclusion, Michigan’s wetlands and water bodies are teeming with a rich diversity of duck species. Each of these 12 duck species plays a unique role in the state’s ecosystem and offers bird enthusiasts and nature lovers a chance to witness their beauty and behaviours up close. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or simply enjoy spending time in nature, exploring the world of ducks in Michigan is an enriching experience that can deepen your appreciation for the state’s natural wonders.